This episode of Mind Over Machine is hosted by Mike Santora, managing editor of Design World, and features a conversation with Amanda Lucas, technical writer at Tormach, and Kimberly Upton, an industrial engineer working in supply chain. The discussion begins with introductions, as Lucas outlines her role creating and maintaining customer-facing documentation, and Upton describes her work across sourcing, engineering coordination, and product implementation. Upton also provides an overview of Tormach as an employee-owned manufacturer of CNC machines and automation tools.
The interview centers on a single question about best practices and examples of solving problems in ways that go beyond what AI can provide. Lucas explains that while AI can produce accurate instructional content, it often lacks the practical understanding of how people interact with procedures in real-world scenarios. She emphasizes the importance of experience and observation in shaping clear, usable technical documentation that accounts for human behavior.
Upton builds on this by focusing on communication, describing situations where resolving issues requires direct, human interaction rather than digital tools. The conversation expands to include broader reflections on how AI fits into daily work, where it is useful, and where it falls short. The group also discusses how evolving technology compares to earlier shifts, and how increasing reliance on AI may shape future communication and problem-solving approaches.
Watch the full video below.